An Overview of Dry Needling

Have you heard of dry needling, but aren’t sure what it is exactly, or if it is right for you? You aren’t alone. While the term may sound intimidating, dry needling itself isn’t. 

What is dry needling? Dry needling is a safe, minimally discomforting, effective technique to decrease musculoskeletal pain. It is performed by licensed, trained physical therapists who are certified in the procedure. A thin, micro filament needle (the same needle used in acupuncture) is inserted into the skin to decrease muscle spasms, trigger points, and pain. 

What is a trigger point? A trigger point is a local contracture or tight band in a muscle fiber. Trigger points can restrict range of motion, cause radiating or local pain and tenderness which can decrease your functionality. 

Is dry needling the same as acupuncture? No. While both dry needling and acupuncture use the same needles and can both relieve pain, the techniques and training are very different, and they are performed by different practitioners.

What does dry needling feel like? Dry needling does not cause pain, it relieves it. The film form needles used are so thin, they penetrate your skin with little to no sensation. Once the needle reaches the trigger point, your muscle may twitch involuntarily, which is a positive response. The twitch is short lived and lasts only for a few seconds, but may feel like a brief cramp. That is when the pain begins to fade away. 

What type of conditions does dry needling treat?  Dry needling can reduce pain, improve mobility, and increase function resulting from many conditions. Some of these conditions include: achilles tendinitis/tendinosis, plantar fasciitis, sciatica, neck/back pain, shoulder pain, tennis/golfer’s elbow, muscle strains, headaches, hip and gluteal pain, knee pain, chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-operative pain.

Who can benefit from dry needling? Dry needling is frequently used to treat athletes and active adults who are experiencing pain, or limitations in mobility or performance.  However, dry needling is not limited to athletes. Anyone who is having muscular pain, has experienced a strain or injury or has limited mobility or function may benefit from dry needling. 

At Complete Game Physical Therapy, with two convenient locations in Lowell and Tewksbury, we provide dry needling as a treatment option for a wide variety of orthopedic conditions.  If you would like more information, or think dry needling might be right for you, contact us at KAnderson@completegamept.com,  or (978) 710-7210.